A.T. Still University graduates prepare for the next chapter

Dr. David Funk and Dr. Rachael Galvin. (Courtesy of A.T. Still University)

Last summer, Dr. David Funk graduated from A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) in Mesa with his doctorate of physical therapy. In May, Dr. Rachael Galvin graduated from ATSU’s dual-degree program with a doctorate of osteopathic medicine from ATSU’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA) in Mesa and a master’s in public health from ATSU’s College of Graduate Health Studies.

On April 15, the couple tied the knot in Waikoloa Beach, Hawaii. Hawaii was more than just a destination for their wedding, however. The couple has called the tropical paradise home for the past three years. As students, both were assigned to the islands for clinical rotations. Since his graduation, Funk has worked there as a traveling physical therapist.

It was a winding road that led Galvin and Funk to careers in health care. Galvin comes from a family of doctors. In fact, her father is a graduate of ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. Galvin rebelled by studying photojournalism in college, but was persuaded to pursue a career in medicine after a taking a life-changing trip to Haiti to help people affected by the devastating 2010 earthquake.

“I think quality health care is often taken for granted,” she said. “That trip really opened my eyes to the tremendous impact medicine and public health can have on people’s lives.”

Funk originally planned to study dentistry, but changed his mind after shadowing his sister, a physical therapist, at her office. After speaking with a patient whose goal was simply to hold her grandchildren again, Funk realized what a profound impact physical therapists can have.

“We give patients their lives back,” he said. “It’s incredible.”

This summer, the couple plans to trade in their surfboards for skis, as Galvin begins her residency in Denver. In the meantime, the newlyweds are making the most of their remaining time in paradise, and reflecting on the memories they’ve made.